More than 30 people have been killed in clashes between security forces and protesters during the first round of regional elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee. JAAC member Sardar Umar Nazir said 20 supporters died during a march on July 27, with at least 10 more killed the following day in Rawalakot, Mirpur and other areas. Pakistani authorities said one security officer was killed and five injured on July 27.
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz won nine of 13 seats in the first round. The election was split into three phases due to security concerns, with further voting scheduled for August 2 and August 10. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf boycotted the polls over fraud concerns.
At the heart of the unrest is controversy over 12 reserved seats for Kashmiri refugees based in Pakistan. The JAAC, banned under anti-terrorism laws in June, demands the abolition of those seats and broader economic reforms. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan condemned the excessive use of force against demonstrators.